We were fortunate to catch up with some brilliant artists, creatives and entrepreneurs from throughout the Houston area and they share the wisdom with us below.

LaSha N. White | Travel Tips & Reviews | The Trip Payment Plan Queen

The most important decision I made for my success was not caring what people think about me. I didn’t want to post my content on Instagram because I knew the people over there lol. Overcoming my hesitation to post there, despite having fewer followers than on TikTok. I initially prioritized a personal connection with my smaller Instagram audience, but when I realized the untapped potential, I embraced it and grew so much. This shift boosted my overall engagement and reach more than I could’ve thought in such a short amount of time so I was like ‘Damn girl, why haven’t we been doing this before?!’ Read more>>

DeCarlos McKinney | Author and Life Enthusiast

One of the most impactful books I’ve recently read is my own creation, “How I Met The Love of My Life and Lost Him At The Same Time.” In this memoir, I delve into the intoxicating highs and crushing lows of a tumultuous three-year relationship that took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. From the initial meeting, where neither of us could have foreseen the saga of heartbreaks, betrayals, and jail stints that awaited, to the painful journey of falling in love with someone, desperately hoping for change, and finally finding the strength to let go. Read more>>

Kalika Evans | Cosplayer & Content Creator

Seeing the smiles and joy from others makes me happy. I know we should never do things in life for others and find our own joy in life, but when do something and I can make someone’s day better and they smile, it really makes my heart soar. Read more>>

Larissa Del Toro | Design Engineer & Entrepreneur

My family is what makes me extremely happy above all circumstances. However, every time I start planning a picnic event I feel like I’m floating in my own world of ideas, color combinations , picking the right inventory and of course décor shopping if I don’t have certain item that makes the perfect match with the setup I have created in my head. Read more>>

Parker McCord | Musician

Authenticity. I feel like when you’re listening to music, you can always tell when someone’s heart isn’t in it 100%. I always make sure to put everything I’ve got into every second of each song. Every nanosecond is carefully planned and if something ever sounds off-putting or different, it’s supposed to, and I think that’s what everyone needs to be doing with their music. Read more>>

Sonya Carr | Bakery Owner

In life you don’t always have a concrete plan with EVERYTHING figured out. I never wanted to live with regrets. While all the stars weren’t aligned, I still decided to “do it scared.” If there’s an opportunity where you can pursue your dreams even though the timing doesn’t seem 100% perfect or everything isn’t all the way lined up, Still Do It! Read more>>

Bennett Topps | Owner

My end goal with Sip and Swerve is to have a business that completely replaces a full time income I would make if I worked your typical 9-5. I have always wanted and needed more time with my kids and now that I am focusing on growing this business 100% I am able to spend quality time with my family. My end goal is for our business to be something our kids can take over when they are grown and have their own families. I would also love to partner with a variety of venues and become their preferred bartender. Read more>>

Katie JenkinsC | Music Composer & Producer

One of the most important lessons my career as a music composer has taught me is the importance of ‘paying forward kindness’. There are so many people that have given me time, opportunities and mentorship to help get me to where I am today and it is so rewarding to be able to do that for others. I love chatting with younger students about how to develop their careers in music and enjoy catching up with those who have helped me in the past. Read more>>